CFC PRESS RELEASES

CFC Launches “See Their Stories” Public Service Announcement Campaign

Friday, January 12, 2018

Rochester, NY … Catholic Family Center (CFC) announces the launch of “See Their Stories” campaign at www.SeeTheirStories.org in effort to bring clarity surrounding the mistrust and misunderstanding of the refugee resettlement story in our nation. The series of 15- and 30- second public service announcement-length videos capture the personal vignettes of refugees who have resettled in the United States… stories of great loss and great hope.

CFC has made these available as free downloadable and editable PSAs, suitable for any resettlement service providers and individuals who help refugees achieve independence to use and promote freely in their local outreach and educational efforts. CFC has plans to partner with the Vatican and national and New York State based resettlement service agencies in the further distribution of the “See Their Story” free-use PSAs.

“The goal of the ‘See Their Story’ campaign is to share real human stories of welcoming and integration of refugees into our communities and their contributions to society,” said Marlene Bessette, President and CEO, Catholic Family Center. “Our feeling is that these stories make real the troubling, inspiring and at-times beautiful history of what, and who, a refugee is.”

Millions of refugees continue to suffer violence and oppression from their own governments and are further victimized on their journey of seeking asylum. Refugee Resettlement is not a choice. It’s a matter of life or death for so many fleeing war, persecution, abuse, neglect, gang violence, trafficking sometimes without parents and family.

“Refugees are among the most vulnerable in our community,” added Bessette. “Now more than ever, may our combined resources and dedication serve to bring clarity to this very important issue in our country, and in our world, and help those we serve find peace, safety and friendship.”

Some came alone. Some escaped with their families. Some were forced to leave their parents and children behind. All dreamed of living in peace. See Their Stories at www.SeeTheirStories.org.

About Catholic Family Center: Catholic Family Center (CFC) is Greater Rochester’s largest provider of comprehensive family services. Each year we assist tens of thousands of our neighbors, relatives and friends as they work to remain or become healthy, productive, participating members of our community. We serve all people—regardless of religion, race, ethnicity, age, ability or gender. Our programs work together to address the many issues of human need across all stages of life.